For anyone wondering what ‘diwas’ means, it is the Hindi word for day. WCC's Hindi Department celebrated Hindi Diwas by conducting a workshop for students on September 15, 2023, at Bamford Hall.
The workshop was an enthusiastic affair, attended by WCC’s students who have taken Hindi as their second language, as well as numerous participants from other colleges in the city. The workshop featured sessions by Dr Srabani Bhattacharya from Stella Maris College and Dr Manoj Kumar Singh from D G Vaishnav College. Both speakers educated students about the cultural significance as well as the professional possibilities that knowing Hindi can provide.
In connection with Hindi Diwas, the Department also conducted debate, JAM, poster making, spelling bee, cookery and story writing competitions prior to the grand finale. The prize winners received their awards on the day of the workshop. These competitions were meant to promote the development of language skills and encourage students to utilize Hindi in their daily life.
According to Dr Priya Naidu, Head of the Department of Languages, every student of Hindi should know the significance of Hindi Diwas. She explained, "Hindi Diwas is about inclusivity. This day celebrates the occasion when Hindi became an official language." When asked what it was like to celebrate Hindi Diwas in college, Dr Naidu responded, "WCC has always supported the celebration."
It becomes clear that language doesn't have to create divisions; instead it can foster unity if treated with respect and appreciation.
The organizers along with the chief guests. Credits: Pragathi Club